Do You Need A Pacemaker For Afib?

Getting diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition of irregular heartbeat, may leave you wondering if a pacemaker can help with the treatment. While medication and lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense, pacemakers can regulate heart rhythm with AFib; let’s find out how.

Is Pacemaker The First Choice For AFib?

A pacemaker is a device that is implanted to make your heart beat at a normal rate. Typically it is not the first choice for AFib unless you have it with a slow ventricular rate. In such a case scenario, a pacemaker makes sure your heart rate does not drop below a specified limit.

How Does a Pacemaker Help with Atrial Fibrillation?

It helps by:

1. Regulating Heart Rate
   Those who live with AFib have electrical signals that control the disrupted heartbeat. This change leads to an irregularity and sometimes increases the heart rate as well. This is where the role of pacemaker comes into play. They help regulate the heart rate by sending out electrical pulses to stimulate it and work at a regular pace. The main purpose of using a pacemaker is to ensure that the heart beats at the right rate.
2. Preventing Bradycardia
   Bradycardia is a condition that characterizes slow heart rate and is a significant issue for patients with AFib. In situations where your heart rate goes too slow, a pacemaker sends out electrical pulses to stimulate it and maintain a regular pace. This helps prevent bradycardia and ensures that your heart continues to pump blood effectively.
3. Improves Heart Function
   Pacemakers are a good choice for AFib patients and congestive heart failure. By regulating the heart rhythm, pacemakers improve overall heart function and reduce symptoms associated with heart failure.
4. Minimizing the Incidence of Alarming Symptoms

Pacemakers reduce symptoms associated with AFib, such as:

• Increased level of Fatigue: You need an adequate level of blood efficiently pumping for your body to work. When patients with AFib are
• given pacemakers, this device ensures proper circulation, reducing fatigue.
• Shortness of Breath: These implantable devices improve lung function as well, reducing shortness of breath.

Types of Pacemakers

Pacemakers come in 3 main types, each designed to address a different heart rhythm problem.

1. Single-chamber pacemakers target either the upper (atrium) or lower (ventricle) chamber of the heart. The transmission is based on where the electrical signal needs a boost.
2. Dual-chamber pacemakers are a step further. They stimulate both the atrium and ventricle on the right side to ensure a coordinated heartbeat.
3. Biventricular pacemakers are used for people with heart failure, where the pumping action is weak and out of sync. These pacemakers work on both ventricles, namely left and right, to contract together.

Living with a Pacemaker – The Dos and Don’ts

Dos:

• Keep up with regular checkups with your doctor.
• Make exercise a part of your daily routine under your cardiologists’ guidance.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by modifying dietary intake.
• Carry a pacemaker ID card.

Don’ts:

• No recklessness or panicking about everyday activities.
• Do not ignore potential interference from magnets or anti-theft systems.
• Steer clear of placing your phone directly on your pacemaker for a long time.
• Never neglect the proper care of your pacemaker.

Closing Note

In a nutshell, pacemakers can be a valuable addition to managing AFib; however, choosing the right type with your cardiologist makes all the difference. If you need help or want to learn more about this, contact Dr. Rajesh Ramineni. He is a 5-star rated cardiologist in The Woodlands, certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and practices at Healthy Living Heart and Vein. You can consult us by dialing (936) 978-0466 or schedule an appointment on the same number. Your health is our priority, and we are ready to assist you in every way possible.